Gerri Cameron
I was born and raised in Vermilion along with 5 siblings. Later our 3 children attended VES and graduated from JR Robson. Currently, I am the proud grandmother of 3 grandchildren and a great-grandma of two children. I am proud of all of my grandchildren, but I was so lucky to have two of my grandchildren go through VES with me.
While raising my family, I volunteered and subbed in the VES Office. Then in November 1984, I received my first pay from the County of Vermilion River #28, now known as Buffalo Trail Public Schools, since amalgamation in 1996. At VES, I was hired as a secretary assigned all Office duties using paper, pen/pencil, and adding the old-fashioned way. Over the years my position has been known as Secretary, Office Administrator, and currently Administrative Assistant. Technology is ever-evolving with vast changes, taking us to ever-changing specialized computer programs.
Over the past 39-plus years, different generations have passed through the doors of VES. It is so interesting when a little one comes into the office and I say, “You know when your Mom/Dad came to VES they used to be just this tall too.” That saying has dried many tears. Many years ago a little fellow in particular that I recall, was so sad leaving home for the first time. His teacher would bring him to me each morning upon arrival off the bus. For about 3 weeks, he sat on the floor by my desk and (we) learned to tie his shoelaces. It is so heartwarming to see students begin in kindergarten and then graduate from grade 6. There are so many fond stories and I best stop now or this will be a book. I just plain love each day.
Every day of these many years, I thoroughly enjoy coming to Vermilion Elementary School. I can’t dream of any other place I’d rather be. I hope that I have made a difference in a child’s life, and I will then have accomplished my goal.
"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."
Maya Angelou